Monday, November 9, 2009

Kundadri is a pristine hill station in Karnataka located in Teerthahalli Taluk of Shimoga.

Kundadri is a pristine hill station in Karnataka located in Teerthahalli Taluk of Shimoga. It is popular with those who are enthusiastic about mountain trekking. Kundadri hill station is a large monolithic rock formation towering 3200 feet above sea level. It is shrouded with dense evergreen woods.

A 17th century Jain temple is to be found atop the hill enveloped in a tranquility possible only in the mountains. Along with the temple are to be found two lotus pools. Kundadri at Karnataka has derived its name from the Jain monk, Kundakundacharya. The latter is believed to have undertaken severe penance here. The place is crowded by Jain devotees during Makar Sankranti.

Numerous rivers flowing at the base of the Kundadri hills which can be spotted from any vantage point at the mountain peak and the backwaters of Varahi Dam enhance the natural beauty.

Visitors to Kundadri of Karnataka can choose from a plethora of options that include trekking, observing birds and visiting the magnificent falls. Kundadri is accessible from Teerthahalli via Nalur or through Kammaradi-Begar-Hosagadde to ‘Kundadri circle,' the starting point in ascending the hill. It is best to initiate the trip from Nalur due to the distance factor besides easy transport. The route from Kammaradi-Begar-Hosagadde will benefit those who start from Sringeri. Those who prefer hiking can follow the route from Teerthahalli via Kammaradi- Nadabur-Halakunda and undertake a walk of 6 kilometers from Kammaradi.

Accommodation is available only at Theerthahalli

Situated along the Thirthahalli - Mastikhatte road, about 12 kilometers from Thirthahalli, Kundadri is a popular hill resort in Karnataka.